System and method for initiating a video conferencing through a streaming device

ABSTRACT

The disclosed embodiments include a method, apparatus, and computer program product for initiating by a remote user a video conference through a streaming device of a first user. One embodiment is a computer-implemented method that includes the steps of activating the streaming device; granting the remote user access to a website for controlling the streaming device in response to activating the streaming device; authenticating the remote user; receiving a selection of video conference options from the remote user in response to the remote user being authenticated; generating an invitation for the first user to accept a video conference with the remote user; and initiating the video conference in response to the first user to accepting the invitation.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/492,389, filed Jun. 8, 2012, entitled SYSTEM ANDMETHOD FOR SETTING RESOLUTION UTILIZED FOR VIDEO CONFERENCING THROUGH ASTREAMING DEVICE, which is a Continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/209,518 filed Sep. 12, 2008 entitled SYSTEM ANDMETHOD FOR ENCODING CHANGES FOR VIDEO CONFERENCING THROUGH A SET-TOP BOXthe entire teachings of which are incorporated herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of and development of media services has grown nearlyexponentially in recent years. The growth is fueled by larger networkswith more reliable protocols and better communications hardwareavailable to service providers and consumers. In particular, many usersreceive satellite, cable, Internet Protocol television (IPTV), and othermedia services for display on one or more televisions within a home,business, or organization.

Many users have one or more set-top, digital video recorders (DVR),personal video recorders (PVR), and home network devices in their home,business, or organization. In many cases, the functionality of thesedevices are limited to very narrow applications. As a result, additionalfeatures and services have not been readily available through thesedevices.

SUMMARY

The disclosed embodiments include a method, apparatus, and computerprogram product for initiating by a remote user a video conferencethrough a streaming device of a first user. One embodiment is acomputer-implemented method that includes the steps of activating thestreaming device; granting the remote user access to a website forcontrolling the streaming device in response to activating the streamingdevice; authenticating the remote user; receiving a selection of videoconference options from the remote user in response to the remote userbeing authenticated; generating an invitation for the first user toaccept a video conference with the remote user; and initiating the videoconference in response to the first user to accepting the invitation

Another embodiment provides a system for video conferencing. The systemmay include a server configured to provide a website accessible by aremote user through a network connection. The remote user selects toinitiate a video conference with a user by sending an invitation. Thesystem may also include a streaming device in communication with theserver operable to implement the video conference in response to theuser accept the invitation from the remote user to begin a videoconference. The streaming device may determine whether availablebandwidth is at a threshold to support the line resolution. Thestreaming device may adjust the line resolution in response todetermining the available bandwidth does not support the lineresolution.

Yet another embodiment provides a streaming device for videoconferencing. The streaming device may include a processor for executinga set of instructions and a memory for storing the set of instructions.The set of instructions may be configured to receive an invitation toaccept a video conference through the set-top box, set a line resolutionfor the video conference based on user input, determine whetheravailable bandwidth supports the line resolution, implement the videoconference utilizing the line resolution, and adjust the line resolutionbased on the determination.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described indetail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which areincorporated by reference herein and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a communications environment inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a communications system in accordance withan illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a process for initiating a video conferencethrough a set-top box in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a process for implementing a video conferencethrough a set-top box in accordance with an illustrative embodiment

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for adjusting bandwidth in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a pictorial representation of a user interface for videoconferencing utilizing a set-top box in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment; and

FIG. 7 is a pictorial representation of a graphical user interface forvideo conferencing utilizing a television forwarding device inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

An illustrative embodiment of the present invention provides a systemand method for video conferencing through a set-top box or televisionforwarding device. In one embodiment, a television forwarding device isconfigured for access and control by a local or remote user. Forexample, a remote user may initiate a video conference with familymembers by accessing the television forwarding device with a personalcomputing device through a website. The communicating parties maycontrol the settings, user preferences, configuration, and othersoftware and hardware elements of the video conference. In oneembodiment, the remote user may entirely control the video conference.The television forwarding device is a network device configured tostore, manage, stream, and allow user access to media content. Theset-top box is a device configured to process an incoming media signalor communication for display by a television or other similar device.

Another illustrative embodiment provides a system and method foradjusting resolution of a video conference image. The resolution or sizeof the video conference image may be adjusted automatically based on theavailable bandwidth or based on a user selection. The availablebandwidth is the bandwidth that may be used for video conferencing. Theavailable bandwidth may be specified by an allotment or based on one ormore thresholds. Additional devices, users, and applications mayindicate the available bandwidth for video conferencing while ensuringthat the other communications may still occur. For example, the lineresolution and corresponding picture size of a video conference imagemay be automatically reduced from a highest level to a next highestlevel in response to the available bandwidth decreasing based onutilization of a data-enabled phone.

FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a communications environment 100in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The communicationsenvironment 100 represents the systems and environments in which mediaand network communications occur in an illustrative embodiment. Thecommunications environment 100 may include a home 102, a television 104,a television forwarding device 106, a set-top box 108, a communicationsnetwork 110, a communications management system 112, a webpage 114, andwireless devices 116, 118, and 120. In one embodiment, the differentelements and components of the communications environment 100 may beutilized to perform video conferencing enabled by the televisionforwarding device 106 or the set-top box 108.

Communications within the communications environment 100 may occur onany number of networks which may include wireless networks, data orpacket networks, cable networks, satellite networks, Internet Protocoltelevision (IPTV) networks, private networks, publicly switchedtelephone networks (PSTN), or other types of communication networks. Thecommunications network 110 is infrastructures for sending and receivingmessages and signals according to one or more designated formats,standards, and protocols. The communications network 110 of thecommunications environment 100 may represent a single communicationservice provider or multiple communications services providers. Thefeatures, services, and processes of the illustrative embodiments may beimplemented by one or more elements of the communications environment100 independently or as a networked implementation.

The different elements and components of the communications environment100 may communicate using wireless communications, such as satelliteconnections, WiFi, WiMAX, code division multiple access (CDMA) wirelessnetworks, and/or hardwired connections, such as fiber optics, T1, cable,DSL, high-speed trunks, and telephone lines. The wireless devices 116,118, and 120 may communicate with the communications management system112 and communications network 110 using communications protocols, suchas time division multiple access (TDMA), CDMA, global systems for mobile(GSM) communications, personal communications systems (PCS), WLAN,WiMAX, or other frequently used cellular and data communicationsprotocols and standards. The wireless devices 116, 118, and 120 mayinclude cellular phones, Blackberry® devices, personal digitalassistances (PDA), mp3 players, laptops, evolution data optimized (EDO)cards, multi-mode devices, and other wireless communication devices andelements. The communications network 110 may include various fiberoptics, cables, transmission towers, antennas, or other elements fortransmitting voice communications to the connected telephonic devices.The video conference signals may include a video and audio componentcommunicated using any number of standards and protocols. The videoconference signals may be communicated as data, packets, or other typesof analog and digital signals.

The communications management system 112 is one or more network devicesutilized to enable, initiate, route, and manage media content and videocommunications between one or more communications devices. Thecommunications management system 112 may include one, or more devicesnetworked to manage the communications network 110. For example, thecommunications management system 112 may include any number of servers,routers, switches, or advanced intelligent devices. The communicationsnetwork 110 sends and receives the electronic signals through any numberof transmission mediums. The communications network 110 and thecommunications management system 112 may include IPTV or cablemiddleware. In one embodiment, the video conferencing signals may beencoded and decoded by the television forwarding device 106 or set-topbox 108 utilizing the MPEG 2 or 4 standards.

The communications network 110 may include middleware that is used by acable television or IPTV provider. The middleware may communicate usingthe same language, standards, or protocols as the communicationsmanagement system 112 to setup a call for video conferencing.

The call/video conference may be initiated by a remote user utilizingany of the wireless devices 116, 118, and 120. In one embodiment, theremote user initiates the call from the wireless device 116. Thesignaling protocol of the communications management system 112identifies call parameters and information about the remote user andassociated wireless device 116, as well as features that may beutilized. The signaling protocol may be used between the communicationsmanagement system 112 and the communications network 110. Separate orintegrated signaling protocols may be used to communicate with theset-top box 108 and television forwarding device 106, as well. One ormore manufacturers of the set-top box 108 and television forwardingdevice 106, as well as one or more communications service providers, maycoordinate transmission protocols and software integration for ensuringthat handshakes and communications occur seamlessly.

The remote user accessing one of the wireless devices 116, 118, and 120may be authenticated by the communications management system 112 forcommunication with the television forwarding device. Once authenticated,the middleware of the communications network 110 may communicate withthe communications management system to negotiate digital rightsmanagement (DRM) protocols and procedures. For example, thecommunications network 110 or communications management system 112 mayinclude back office systems, such as a DRM key server to providesecurity certificates allowing encryption between the systems of thehome 102 and a remote user participating in a video conferencecommunication. In one embodiment of the communications environment 100,the DRM management key server provides the set-top box 108 the DRM keyto validate authentication to begin IPTV video conferencing services.The television forwarding device 106 may receive the communications oncethey have been decrypted by the set-top box 108. In other words, themiddle ware and DRM key server of the communications management system112 and communications network 110 and the set-top box, and/or thetelevision forwarding device 106 may work together to provide theencryption and decryption for the video conferencing data payload.Without DRM or other similar protections, copies of the payload or thevideo conferencing call may be spoofed or viewed by other viewers.

The communications management system 112 may further include othermiddleware that facilitates and enables the video conference options.For example, the communications management system 112 may include adatabase for storing user contacts and authorization information. Thedatabase may be used for provisioning the conferencing services that arebeing provided to one or more users in the home 102. The communicationsmanagement system 112 may utilize a database or server that includesdigital rights management (DRM) to provide a user access to one or moreset-top boxes. For example, a child that lives in the home may utilizethe wireless device 116 to access the set-top box 108 in response to theDRM database being checked to verify that the user or wireless device116 is a subscriber of the video conferencing service available throughthe communications service provider. The communications managementsystem 112 may also include a digital rights management serverconfigured to authenticate users and communicate encrypted videoconference signals.

The home 102 as shown in FIG. 1 is an example of a dwelling structure.In other embodiments, the home 102 may be a business, organization, orother structure where people live, work, or otherwise congregate. Thetelevision 104 is a display device that displays television content andprograms. The television 104 may display either digital or analogsignals. The television 104 may be a CRT monitor, an LCD television, acomputer monitor, a plasma television, or other display device suitablefor displaying images and media content to a user. The set-top box 108is a device configured to manage, format, and display media, data, andsecurity content communicated to the television 104. The set-top box 108may communicate information to the television 104 wirelessly or througha wired connection, such as an electrical or fiber connection. In oneexample, the set-top box 108 is a cable box provided by a cable orsatellite television/Internet provider. In another example, the set-topbox 108 is or may include an enhanced digital video recorder fordisplaying television content and recording and displaying securitycontent as needed.

As shown, a network connection from the communications network 110provides a content stream including video, data, media, and otherinteractive content to the television 104. The connection may be a hardwired line, such as fiber-optic, DSL, cable, Ethernet, twisted-pair, orother communication medium suitable for communicating data. Thetelevision connection may alternatively be a wireless connection forreceiving television content and security content. The data may bereceived from a satellite, cable, telephone, cellular, Internet service,or other communications service provider. The set-top box 108 may beused to select the normal viewing content, order programs, recordprograms, and control the television 104 as specified by the user. Oneor more remote controls, touch screens, or interfacing elements mayreceive user input for the television 104, television forwarding device106, and the set-top box 108.

The television 104 may be connected to any number of peripheral devicesfor displaying alternatively received content. In one embodiment, thetelevision 104 is connected to the television forwarding device 106. Thetelevision forwarding device 106 is a network device configured tostream media to a remote user from the television forwarding device 106or from the set-top box 108 through a network connection. In oneembodiment, the television forwarding device 106 is a Slingbox™ or aslingbox equivalent. The television forwarding device 106 may beintegrated with or include a gaming system, a media system, personalvideo recorder, or any other device that streams television content ormedia to the television 104.

The television 104, the television forwarding device 106, and/or theset-top box 108 may include an external or internal video camera. Thevideo camera may be a hard or soft camera that may be wired orwirelessly connected to the respective device. The video camera mayrecord video or other images for communication to the wireless devices116, 118, or 120. For example, the video camera may be an IP camera orhigh-resolution web camera connected to the television forwarding device106 through a universal serial bus (USB) port. In another embodiment,the set-top box may include a directional video camera that may pan,tilt, zoom, and otherwise be locally or remotely managed.

The content stream available through the network connection may beestablished with IPTV network components by sending an add stream orstream origination request. The add stream request may be a message orcommand sent from the set-top box 108 that requests a content stream fora specified channel, video-on-demand, program, or other media content.The add stream request may be authenticated based on information,passwords, or other identifiers sent by the set-top box 108. The IPTVnetwork may use Internet Group Management Protocols (IGMP), controlsignals, configurations, formats, and standards for receivingbroadcasts.

In one embodiment, a DVR is integrated with the set-top box 108 ortelevision forwarding device 106. The set-top box 108 may allow a userto receive digital television service through the network connectionusing Internet Protocol over a network infrastructure. The set-top box108 may be a device that functions as a translator or intermediarybetween the communications network 110 and the television forwardingdevice 106 and/or television 104. The set-top box 108 and/or televisionforwarding device 106 may convert, format, or translate the signalreceived through the network connection to be displayed on the screen ofthe television 104.

In the communications environment 100, the set-top box 108 may be acomputer or computing device providing communications on an IP networkand decoding the video streaming media for display by the television104. The set-top box 108 and television forwarding device 106 may recordmedia content in a digital format to a disk drive or other memorymedium. The set-top box 108 and television forwarding device 106 mayinclude a processor, memory, bus, chipsets, video cards,encoders/decoders, interfaces, adapters, transceivers, and other commoncomputing and communications elements. The set-top box 108 allows a userto specify and change the content stream streamed through the networkconnection to the television 104.

In particular, the set-top box 108 and television forwarding device 106may store and/or execute programs, operating systems, or instructionsfor controlling the media content, playback, user interaction, and otherinteractive features available to a user through the television 104. Theset-top box 108 and television forwarding device 106 may enable a userto capture video, media, or other content for playback from a disk or amemory of the set-top box 108 or television forwarding device 106. Theset-top box 108 and television forwarding device 106 may provide theuser with the ability to record programs, features, or other media forplay back at the user's convenience.

In one embodiment, the set-top box 108 and television forwarding device106 may be configured to perform video conferencing with a remote user.For example, a remote user may utilize the wireless device 116 which maybe a laptop with a microphone and web camera to initiate a video callwith a user in the home 102 through the television forwarding device106. The user may set preferences in the set-top box 108 and televisionforwarding device 106 for performing video conferences.

The set-top box 108, television forwarding device 106, and thetelevision 104 may communicate through a hard-wired or wirelessconnection. In one embodiment, the set-top box 108 and television 104may communicate through a display interface, such as a high-definitionmulti-media interface (HDMI). The display interface is thecommunications medium and interface for communicating signals betweenthe television forwarding device 106 and the television 104 or theset-top box 108 and the television. However, the display interface orconnection may be any digital audio/video interface suitable fortransmitting and/or compressing media streams. The set-top box 108,television forwarding device 106, and the television 104 may use anynumber of digital connection or analog standards and converters to sendand receive information.

In another embodiment, the set-top box 108, television forwarding device106, and the television 104 may communicate through a wirelessconnection, such as Bluetooth® or WiFi, such as IEEE 802.11(n). Theconnection between the set-top box 108 and/or television forwardingdevice 106 and the television 104 may be used to carry video, audio, andother device controlling signals that are part of the video conference.In one embodiment, each device may include a public or private IPaddress that allows devices to audibly and visually communicate with oneanother. Other wireless standards and protocols may be similarly used toallow the set-top box 108 and television 104 to communicate in differentrooms or locations.

The user and the remote user may be required to download, install, orotherwise access software clients, audio/video encoders and decoders,DRM keys, drivers, or other hardware or software elements to enablevideo conferencing through the set-top box 108, television forwardingdevice 106, wireless devices 116, 118, and 120. In one embodiment, theset-top box 108 acts as an interface or pass-through device for enablingvideo conferencing through the television forwarding device 106. Forexample, the set-top box 108 may provide a high speed logical interfaceto a data connection to the television forwarding device 106 through aUSB connection.

The set-top box 108 may be configured to send add stream requests for anumber of televisions. In one example, the set-top box 108 may request ahigh-definition MPEG 4 content stream for the television that uses 8 MB.However, the bandwidth required for different video compressionstandards may vary based on the applicable formats, content serviceprovider, user and provider devices, and content formats. The set-topbox 108 and/or the television forwarding device 106 may be configured todownload a software client, application, or add-on from thecommunications management system 112. In one embodiment, the set-top box108 may only act as a network interface or pass-through device and maynot be required to take part in the video conferencing technology.

Quality of service (QoS) is an added feature for each user who maysubscribe to video conferencing services. In one embodiment, the usermay be required to pay a larger monthly service fee or charge ascompared to those that do not have a guaranteed QoS. For example, theQoS guarantee may ensure data speeds and functionality for the users onthe IPTV or cable television network. The same QoS or guarantees may notbe in place for the remote user that may be communicating with theset-top box 108, television forwarding device 106 through a public orprivate network connection. This application incorporates by referenceutility application Ser. No. 12/174,411, filed on Jul. 16, 2008. Thereferences in the above included application that refer to securitysurveillance communications, systems, devices, services, and equipmentmay be considered as video conferencing equivalents in an illustrativeembodiment. The incorporated reference provides further disclosure anddetails regarding communications, interfacing standards and protocols,and middle ware functionality.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a communications system in accordance withan illustrative embodiment. The communications system 200 is aparticular implementation of portions of the communications environment100 of FIG. 1. In one embodiment, the communications system 200 mayinclude a website 202, a communications network 204, a set-top box 206,which may further include a network interface 208 and a data interface210, a television forwarding device 212, which may further include adata interface 214, a processor 216, a memory 218, video conferencelogic 220, audio/video decoder 222, HDMI 224, composite connector 226,component connector 228, audio/video encoder 230, a user interface 232,and a television 234.

Such a call described above with the public Internet cannot provide thesame service level guarantees based on the network parameter unknownsand networking delays between Internet service providers network.

As shown, the set-top box 206 and the television forwarding device 212may receive control signals, video images, and other content through thecommunications network 204. In one embodiment, the set-top box 206 mayact as an intermediary device for the television forwarding device 212and the television 234. In another embodiment, the communicationsnetwork 204, set-top box 206, television forwarding device 212, and thetelevision 234 may independently communicate with one another. Theset-top box 206 and the television forwarding device 212 may include anynumber of hardware and software components. The hardware and softwareelements described for the set-top box 206 and television forwardingdevice 212 may be included or utilized in either device.

The network interface 208 is the component utilized to receive, buffer,process, and perform the other standard functions of the set-top box206. The data interfaces 210 and 214 are components configured totransmit and receive signals between the set-top box 206 and thetelevision forwarding device 212. Similarly, data interface 214 mayreceive signals from the set-top box 206 to process commands, receiveuser input, and otherwise carry on the functions as herein described.When a user subscribes to QoS functions, services, or guarantees for thevideo conferencing services, several network components may beconfigured by the communications service provider to provide the truenetwork throughput required to guarantee optimal performance.

The network interface 208 may mark the video conferencing packet, streamor payload generated by the television forwarding device 212. Themarking may identify the traffic destined upstream or towards thecommunications network 204. The marked packet or portion of the datastream may be treated with enhanced priority over the other packets,data streams or data coming from the home. For example, the markedpackets may be processed by a CMTS, DSL modem, DSLAM, edge switch, andedge router. Similarly, video conference traffic may be switched orrouted back down the same elements mentioned above to another user'shome or the origination point of the conference call. Priority markings,such as differentiated services, Terms of service, IEEE 802.1q, IEEE802.10, and so forth, may be used to ensure true video quality at thebit rate selected by the user. If the communications network 204 beginsto experience some form of impairments within these systems, such ascongestion or latency, both the encoders and decoders on both ends maydial down the video payload parameters during the call whilesimultaneously maintaining video conferencing continuity. A video callor video conferencing QoS may not functional as described over thepublic Internet or other networks where the network parameters areunknown and network delays may be generated between Internet serviceproviders.

The data interface 210 may communicate with the data interface 214 ofthe television forwarding device 212 using any number of wirelessstandards, protocols, or formats. In one embodiment, the data interface210 may communicate with the data interface 214 using a channel of aWiFi signal. The WiFi signal may be designated for use or integrated aspart of a home wireless network utilized by the user. In anotherembodiment, the data interfaces 210 and 214 may use a Bluetooth signalor equivalent to perform communication. The different wireless signalsor channels utilized by the data interfaces 210 and 214 may vary basedon the media content, television channel, or other programming selectedby a user utilizing the television 234 interconnected to the televisionforwarding device 212.

The processor 216 is circuitry or logic enabled to control the executionof a set of instructions. The processor 216 may be a microprocessor,digital signal processor, central processing unit, or other devicesuitable for controlling the television forwarding device 212, includingone or more hardware and software elements, executing software,instructions, programs and applications, converting and processingsignals and information, and performing other related tasks. Theprocessor 216 may be a single chip or integrated with other computing orcommunications elements. In one embodiment, the processor 216 mayconvert and format an incoming signal received through the datainterface 214 for display by one or more televisions and transmission toone or more wireless adapters.

The memory 218 is a hardware element, device, or recording mediaconfigured to store data for subsequent retrieval or access at a latertime. The memory 218 may be static or dynamic memory. The memory 218 mayinclude a hard disk, random access memory, cache, removable media drive,mass storage, or configuration suitable as storage for data,instructions, and information. In one embodiment, the memory 218 andprocessor 216 may be integrated. The memory 218 may use any type ofvolatile or non-volatile storage techniques and mediums. The set-top box206 may similarly include a processor and memory.

The video conference logic 220 is the logic and circuitry forcontrolling a video conference. The video conference logic 220 may storepreferences and options for performing video conferences in the memory218. The video conference logic 220 may coordinate the exchange of videosignals between the television 234 and a remote device. In oneembodiment, the video conference logic 220 may control the videoconference resolution displayed by the television 234. For example, thetelevision forwarding device 212 may have bandwidth requirements thatmust be met in order to perform video conferencing. The video conferencelogic 220 may increase or decrease the line resolution bandwidth asneeded. In one embodiment, the video conference logic 220 adjustments tothe line resolution may be no adjustment at all. For example, once aline resolution is set by the user or by the video conference logic 220based on the available bandwidth, the line resolution may remainunchanged during the entirety of the video conference. The videoconference logic 220 may also control how the user may generate oraccept an invitation to participate in a video conference. Theinvitation is an electronic message that specifies information about theparticipating party(s) and the video conference itself. The invitationmay include identifiers, radio buttons, selectors, icons, hyperlinks, orother interactive elements for accepting or rejecting the invitation.The video conference logic 220 may also control when and how bandwidthand line resolution, is adjusted automatically or based on userfeedback.

The audio/video encoder 230 is a device configured to change a videoand/or audio signal from the television 234 into a code. The code may becompressed for transmission, encryption, or translation. For example,the audio/video encoder 230 may be a H.264 video encoder that may beused to encode the video conferencing signal received from thetelevision 234 in order to conserve bandwidth. In one embodiment, theaudio/video encoder 230 encrypts the signal to better ensure thesecurity and privacy of the video conference signal outside the intendedparties. In one embodiment, the audio/video encoder 230 supports thefollowing encoder requirements 704×480 4 times common intermediateformat (CIF), 704×240 2 times CIF, 352×240 CIF, and 176×120 quarter CIF.In one embodiment, the communications network 204 may be an IPTV networkoperated by an IPTV service provider. The IPTV service provider maysupport four or more simultaneous full D1 standard definition videostreams to the home. The video conference may be considered as one ofthose standard definition television services for the duration of thecall on both ends. When the call or video conferencing session isdisconnected by the user or remote user, the bandwidth is recovered andIPTV viewing returns to a standard process and format. The audio/videoencoder 230 may be configured to dynamically adjust the video/audioquality of the video conference up or down based on the availablebandwidth specified by threshold levels or streaming requirements. Forexample, the threshold may specify that at least 1 Mb of bandwidth beavailable for additional voice and data communications not involved inthe video conference. A default threshold value may be automatically beestablished or a number of threshold may specify when decreases orincreases in line resolution are made. For example, if the availablebandwidth suddenly increases for a specified time period, the lineresolution may be correspondingly adjusted upwards. In anotherembodiment, the threshold may be a performance level or measurement,such as throughput, dropped packets, packet delay, transmission delay,or other performance factors.

The audio/video decoder 222 is a device configured to change a receivedcode back into a video and audio signal. The audio/video decoder 222 maybe a program, application, or module configured to work with the datainterface 214 or independently to process an incoming cable, satellite,data, or other signal to be displayed by the television 234. Theaudio/video decoder 222 may also format different Ethernet, DSL, cable,satellite, or other signals received by the television forwarding device212 for any number of displays.

In the illustrative embodiments, formatting, decoding, and encoding forthe television forwarding device 212 and set-top box 206 may beperformed by various communicating elements. In another embodiment, thedifferent components of the television forwarding device 212 and set-topbox 206, as shown in FIG. 2, may be software modules that may be storedmemory and executed by a processor to perform the video conferencingfeature as herein described.

The audio/video decoder 222 may format the signal for output throughvarious hardware or display interfaces, such as the HDMI 224, compositeconnector 226, and component connector 228. For example, the audio/videodecoder 222 may convert the received signals into a high-definitionformat, a standard format, and any number of other formats that mayutilize an interconnected television or display. In particular, theaudio/video decoder 222 may communicate each of the different formats tothe HDMI 224. The various ports and connectors that may be integratedwith the HDMI 224 are further described in FIG. 3.

The HDMI 224, composite connector 226, and component connector 228 arethe connectors, ports, or other receptacles that may be utilized tocommunicate the formatted signal to the television 234. For example,television forwarding device 212 may also include other hardwareinterfaces including audio, USB, firewire, and other types of connectorsor ports that may allow the television forwarding device 212 or theset-top box 206 to transmit the formatted signal directly or indirectlythrough a communications link, line, or connection. For example, anEthernet cable may be utilized between the television forwarding device212 and video input port of the television 234.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a process for initiating a video conferencethrough a set-top box in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Theprocess of FIG. 3 may be implemented by a communications system. Thecommunications system may include a remote device operated by a remoteuser, a communications network, and a television forwarding deviceoperated by a home user or called party. The process may begin byactivating a television forwarding device (step 302). The televisionforwarding device may be activated by being powered on. Alternatively, aremote access of the television forwarding device may be selected oractivated.

Next, the communications system grants a remote user access to a websitefor controlling the television forwarding device (step 304). The usermay utilize a personal computer enabled with a video camera to accessthe website through a network connection. In one embodiment, the websitemay be hosted by the communications management system. In oneembodiment, a security server of the communication system may performthe authentication or verification to grant the remote user access tothe website.

Next, the communications system authenticates the remote user andreceives a selection of video conference options (step 306). The usermay be authenticated using a username, password, cookie, FOB, or othersecure identifier. The video conference options may include a selectionof one or more parties to call. For example, the remote user may selecta user from a plurality of contacts stored in a network address bookthat is accessible from the website. The video conference options mayalso include a video line resolution, volume level, and video displayconfiguration.

Next, the communications system generates an invitation for a home userto accept a video conference with the remote user (step 308). Theinvitation may be a message, alert, prompt, or combination ofcommunications that inform the user of the invitation to initiate avideo conference. The invitation may specify the identity of the user ordevice requesting the video conference. For example, the invitation mayinclude a picture associated with the user, such as “Accept a videoconference with mom?” In one embodiment, the television forwardingdevice may be configured to power on the television or play an audioalert in order to allow the home user to select to view the videoconference. The television forwarding device may also display a pop-upwindow with a “join” invitation or display a picture-in-picture requestto accept a video conference with a remote user while simultaneouslydisplaying the remote user's picture.

Next, the video conference is initiated (step 310). Once the videoconference is initiated, video content is streamed between the remoteuser and the home user. In one embodiment, the remote user may control avideo camera integrated or connected with the television forwardingdevice as well as a video camera integrated with or connected to aremote device.

Once the video conference or call is completed, a disconnect message maybe initiated by either communicating party which terminates thecommunication between the television forwarding device and the remotedevice. The illustrative embodiments may allow a communication serviceprovider to expand services to users as well as revenue. Thecommunications service provider and television forwarding device/set-topbox providers may share revenues generated from the video conferencingfeature.

The remote device may be a personal computing or communications device,such as a laptop. In another embodiment, the remote device may beanother television forwarding device or set-top box. The user mayutilize an enhanced program guide to initiate the video conference andinvitation as previously described.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a process for implementing a video conferencethrough a set-top box in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Theprocess of FIG. 4 may be implemented by a remote device 402, acommunications management system 404, and a set-top box 406. In oneembodiment, the remote device 402 is a laptop with an internal orexternal video camera. In another embodiment, the remote device 402 maybe a wireless device, such as a cell phone or PDA. The communicationsmanagement system 404 may include one or more network devices,authentication modules, communications networks, and other networkelements. In one embodiment, the set-top box 406 may include a digitalvideo recorder (DVR). In another embodiment, the set-top box 406 mayinclude or communicate with a television forwarding device, such as aSlingbox.

The process may begin with the remote device 402 accessing a website(step 408). In one embodiment, the website may be served or managed bythe communications management system 404. In another embodiment, thewebsite may be an application that is opened or executed by the remotedevice 402.

The remote device receives an identifier (step 410). The identifier maybe a username, password, radio frequency identification tag, phonenumber, IP address, cookie, account number, or other identifier utilizedto authenticate the remote user. Next, the communications managementsystem 404 verifies the identifier (step 412). A server, database, orsoftware module of the communications management system 404 may be usedto verify the identifier.

The communications management system 404 may display one or morecontacts (step 414). The contacts may be displayed as part of a networkaddress book communicated to the remote device 402 for visual display tothe remote user. For example, the remote user may select to initiate avideo conference with contacts labeled as home, business, or vacationhome.

Next, the remote device 402 receives a user selection of a contact (step416). The user selection may be made by selecting a number, picture,profile, or by manually entering communications information. The remotedevice 402 requests a video conference invitation be sent (step 418). Agraphical user interface displayed by the remote device 402 may beutilized to receive user input, selections, and requests from the remotedevice 402.

Next, the communications management system 404 generates the invitation(step 420). The invitation may be sent as a signal, message, or othercommunication receivable by the set-top box 406. In another embodiment,the invitation may be a voice message that is received by the remotedevice 402 for subsequent transmission to the set-top box 406.

Next, the set-top box 406 may receive the invitation (step 424). Theinvitation may be displayed as a prompt or message on a television incommunication with the set-top box 406. The set-top box 406 determineswhether to accept the video conference (step 426). The determination ofstep 426 is made based on user input or user preferences. For example,the set-top box may be configured to automatically accept a videoconference invitation from a family member when received. In anotherembodiment, a manual selection by a user may be required before thevideo conference is considered accepted. If the set-top box 406determines not to accept the video conference, the process ends. If theset-top box 406 determines to accept the video conference in step 426,the set-top box 406 initiates the video conference (step 428) and theremote device 402 similarly implements the video conference (step 430).During steps 428 and 430, streaming video images, text, and voicecommunications may be communicated between the remote device 402 andset-top box 406. In one embodiment, the communications management system404 may buffer, process, or route the communications signals, packets,or data to facilitate the communications.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a process for adjusting bandwidth in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment. The process of FIG. 5 may beimplemented by a communication system. As previously described, thecommunication system may include one or more remote devices, acommunications management system, and a television forwarding device orset-top box. In one embodiment, the video communications may occurbetween set-top boxes that are communicating through a single IPTVnetwork. In another embodiment, the video communications may occurbetween a set-top box or television forwarding device and a remote userthrough multiple communications service providers and associatednetworks. User input may be received through a menu or enhanced programguide (EPG) from one or more users.

The process may begin by initiating a video conference over a datanetwork (step 502). The video conference may be initiated based on aselection by a remote user. For example, the daughter of a family maywish to speak with her parents after a day of classes at college and mayopen a website or select an application to initiate the videoconference. The data network of step 502 may be any form of cable,satellite, DSL, IPTV, or combination of network types. The remote usermay be required to select a phone number, user name, IP address, orother identifier to validate that the user is authorized to communicatethrough a video conference or that the remote user and user communicatethrough the same network or different networks. The user or calledcustomer may be validated as being a valid subscriber to the IPTV videoconferencing services by a billing system and a DRM server. A pop-up orjoin invitation may be presented to the user to accept or decline thevideo conference call. The middle ware and other communicationscomponents, elements, and equipment between the remote user and user mayimplement the conference call. The line resolution may be differentbased on separate selections by the remote user and user.

Next, the communication system receives a user's selection of a lineresolution (step 504). The line resolution may specify the size, pixels,and picture quality of video images streamed to or from the remote user.In one embodiment, the user selection of step 504 may be made by a userwith physical access to the set-top box. For example, the user mayminimize the line resolutions in order to continue viewing a televisionprogram using a picture-in-picture function of the set-top box that maybe used in conjunction with the video conferencing feature hereindescribed. In one embodiment, the line resolution may be set by defaultin the event a user does not answer or select a line resolution.

Next, the communications system determines whether the bandwidth issufficient for the line resolution (step 506). The determination of step506 may be based on on-going utilization of the bandwidth that isavailable through the set-top box. In one embodiment, an organization,business, or home may have a limited amount of bandwidth. As a result,if one or more voice-over-IP phones (VoIP), computers, and/ortelevisions are operating simultaneously, the available bandwidth may bedecreased significantly. As a result, the determination of step 506 mayinsure that the video conference may occur regardless of bandwidthfluctuations. If the bandwidth is sufficient for the line resolution,the communication system utilizes the specified line resolution (step508).

Next, the communications system determines whether the video conferenceis still ongoing (step 510). If the video conference is still ongoing,the communications system again determines whether the bandwidth issufficient for the line resolution (step 506). If the bandwidth is notsufficient for the line resolution in step 506, the communicationssystem sets the line resolution at the next acceptable threshold (step512). The next acceptable threshold is the next available level orthreshold below the line resolution that may have been specified orpreviously attempted by the communications system. For example, the lineresolution may be decreased from a high level to a medium high levelduring step 512. Next, the communications system determines whether thebidder video conference is still ongoing (step 510). If the videoconference is not still ongoing in step 510, the communications systemends the video conference (step 514). The determinations of steps 506and 510 are repeated continuously for a number of times in order toensure that the line resolution is updated as needed for the videoconference. As a result, the appropriate bandwidth is used asautomatically selected or based on a user's specification. Additionally,if a signal does occur, the resolution may be corrected as needed toensure clear communications between the parties.

FIG. 6 is a pictorial representation of a user interface for videoconferencing utilizing a set-top box in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of a user interface 600.The user interface may be a website application or graphical userinterface for receiving user input and displaying information optionsand preferences regarding a video conference through a set-top box or atelevision forwarding device.

The user interface 600 may include sections 602, 604, 606, and 608. Inone embodiment, the different sections 602, 604, 606, and 608 mayrepresent different steps that are taken during the video conferencingprocess before the video conference is implemented. In anotherembodiment, the sections 602, 604, 606, and 608 may be presentedsequentially to a user based on selections in the prior section. Forexample, the sections 602, 604, 606, and 608 may be web pages that aresequentially displayed to the user to complete the video conference. Thesections may include icons, fields, buttons, drop down elements, orother interfacing elements for receiving a user selection. In oneembodiment, the user interface 600 may be presented to a remote userthrough a touch screen, allowing the user to both receive informationand make selections by selecting or tapping a portion of the screen.

Section 602 may be utilized to initiate a video conference or set userpreferences that are utilized during one or more video conferences. Forexample, the section 602 may be utilized to receive a user name andpassword. The section 602 may also be used to configure user preferencesand options. For example, the user preferences and options may specifydefault settings, including importing contacts from a global or localaddress book, default resolution settings, and any number of otheroptions. In another example, the set-top box implementing the videoconference may be configured to display a picture-in-picture invitationof the calling party when an invitation is received. Similarly, theset-top box may be configured to automatically power on the televisionfor play and audible alert through a surround sound system indicatingthat an invitation has been received to participate in a videoconference.

Section 604 may allow the remote user to select one or more parties tocall. For example, while on a business trip, a spouse may select to callother family members by selecting “home”. In another embodiment, thesection 604 may be utilized to implement a video conference withmultiple parties. For example, the set-top box of a user may be utilizedto carry on a small business meeting for users without a means to buyexpensive video conferencing equipment.

The section 606 may allow a user to select a line resolution that may beutilized by the set-top box. The line resolution effects bandwidth aspreviously discussed and as a result, at any time before or during thevideo conference, the user may adjust the bandwidth. Similarly, theremote user may elect to adjust the bandwidth on the remote device forensuring that the quality of service and video image are of sufficientquality to carry on effective communications.

Section 608 may allow a user to initiate and end the video conference.In another embodiment, the remote user may utilize the user interface600 to control a video camera that is integrated or external to theset-top box. For example, the remote user may zoom or pan the camera asneeded. This may be particularly useful when communicating with smallchildren, handicapped individuals, or other users that may have limitedmobility or access to the set-top box television forwarding device ortelevision.

FIG. 7 is a pictorial representation of a graphical user interface forvideo conferencing utilizing a television forwarding device inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 7 is an alternateillustration of a graphical user interface 700. As previously describedin FIG. 6, the user may send and receive information utilizing thegraphical user interface 700 displayed to the user through a televisioncomputer monitor or other display element.

The previous detailed description is of a small number of embodimentsfor implementing the invention and is not intended to be limiting inscope. One of skill in this art will immediately envisage the methodsand variations used to implement this invention in other areas thanthose described in detail. The following claims set forth a number ofthe embodiments of the invention disclosed with greater particularity.

What is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent ofthe United States is:
 1. A method for initiating by a remote user avideo conference through a streaming device of a first user, the methodcomprising: activating the streaming device; granting the remote useraccess to a website for controlling the streaming device in response toactivating the streaming device; authenticating the remote user;receiving a selection of video conference options from the remote userin response to the remote user being authenticated; generating aninvitation for the first user to accept a video conference with theremote user; and initiating the video conference in response to thefirst user to accepting the invitation.
 2. The method according to claim1, further comprising enabling the remote user to control a video cameraassociated with the streaming device of the first user.
 3. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein activating the streaming device comprisespowering on the streaming device.
 4. The method according to claim 1,wherein the video conference options includes video displayconfigurations.
 5. The method according to claim 1, wherein theinvitation specifies the identity of the remote user requesting thevideo conference.
 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein theinvitation specifies the device that is requesting the video conference.7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the invitation includes apicture associated with the remote user.
 8. The method according toclaim 1, wherein the streaming device is configured to communicate witha plurality of displays simultaneously.
 9. The method according to claim1, wherein the invitation is accepted automatically in response to userpreferences associated with the remote user.
 10. A system, comprising:at least one processor; and at least one memory coupled to the at leastone processor and storing computer executable instructions forinitiating by a remote user a video conference through a streamingdevice of a first user, the computer executable instructions comprisesinstructions for: activating the streaming device; granting the remoteuser access to a website for controlling the streaming device inresponse to activating the streaming device; authenticating the remoteuser; receiving a selection of video conference options from the remoteuser in response to the remote user being authenticated; generating aninvitation for the first user to accept a video conference with theremote user; and initiating the video conference in response to thefirst user to accepting the invitation.
 11. The system according toclaim 8, further comprising instructions for enabling the remote user tocontrol a video camera associated with the streaming device of the firstuser.
 12. The system according to claim 8, wherein activating thestreaming device comprises powering on the streaming device.
 13. Thesystem according to claim 8, wherein the video conference optionsincludes video display configurations.
 14. The system according to claim8, wherein the invitation specifies the identity of the remote userrequesting the video conference.
 15. The system according to claim 8,wherein the invitation specifies the device that is requesting the videoconference.
 16. The system according to claim 8, wherein the invitationincludes a picture associated with the remote user.
 17. A non-transitorycomputer readable medium comprising computer executable instructions forinitiating by a remote user a video conference through a streamingdevice of a first user, the computer executable instructions whenexecuted causes one or more machines to perform operations comprising:activating the streaming device; granting the remote user access to awebsite for controlling the streaming device in response to activatingthe streaming device; authenticating the remote user; receiving aselection of video conference options from the remote user in responseto the remote user being authenticated; generating an invitation for thefirst user to accept a video conference with the remote user; andinitiating the video conference in response to the first user toaccepting the invitation.
 18. The non-transitory computer readablemedium according to claim 17, wherein the computer executableinstructions when executed further causes the one or more machines toperform operations comprising enabling the remote user to control avideo camera associated with the streaming device of the first user. 19.The non-transitory computer readable medium according to claim 17,wherein the invitation specifies the identity of the remote userrequesting the video conference.
 20. The non-transitory computerreadable medium according to claim 17, wherein the invitation specifiesthe device that is requesting the video conference.